A significant chapter in North American League of Legends esports is set to close. 100 Thieves, a prominent organization that has been a cornerstone of the LCS since 2018, will not be participating in the franchised league from 2026 onwards. This development, confirmed by both the club and Riot Games, marks a pivotal moment for the future of competitive LoL in the region.
A Journey Through the LCS
Since their entry into the North American League of Legends Championship Series (LCS) in 2018, 100 Thieves quickly established themselves as a formidable contender. Known for their distinctive brand and competitive rosters, they became a recognizable entity, contributing significantly to the league`s narrative. Their tenure saw periods of intense competition and fan engagement, cementing their place as one of the LCS`s more exciting franchises.
In the current 2025 season, 100 Thieves continued to demonstrate their competitive spirit. They reached the finals of the first split, showcasing their enduring capability to challenge for top honors. While the second split concluded with a 5th-6th place finish, it was still a testament to their presence within the upper echelons of the league.
The Temporary Reprieve: A Guest Slot`s End
The news of 100 Thieves` impending exit is not entirely unforeseen. It was previously disclosed in 2024 that the organization had sold its permanent slot in the league. However, amidst the LCS`s recent restructuring efforts, Riot Games extended a temporary lifeline, allowing 100 Thieves to occupy a “guest slot” for the 2025 season. This arrangement offered a brief, yet critical, reprieve, enabling the team to continue competing at the highest tier of North American League of Legends.
While the guest slot provided continuity for the 2025 season, it appears this temporary solution will not transition into a permanent return. Following the conclusion of the current splits, Riot Games made the strategic decision not to extend an offer for 100 Thieves to re-acquire a permanent position in the league for 2026. This definitive choice means that, come 2026, the LCS will proceed without one of its long-standing members.
Implications and Unanswered Questions
The departure of an organization with the stature of 100 Thieves raises pertinent questions about the evolving landscape of the LCS and the broader North American esports ecosystem. The identity of the team set to occupy the newly vacant slot remains unknown, adding an element of anticipation to the league`s future composition. Furthermore, the fate of 100 Thieves` current League of Legends roster beyond the 2025 season is uncertain. Players will undoubtedly face a period of transition as they assess their competitive options.
This development underscores the dynamic and often demanding nature of franchised esports leagues. While designed for stability, they are not immune to strategic shifts and organizational changes. For 100 Thieves, this marks a pivot, though their exact future in competitive League of Legends, or esports in general, outside of the LCS tier-1 scene is yet to be clearly defined.
As the LCS prepares to usher in a new era, the absence of 100 Thieves will undoubtedly be felt. Their legacy within the league is established, and their exit serves as a stark reminder of the continuous evolution, and occasional upheaval, inherent in professional esports.
